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She added: “When we looked at the tournament potential, we felt we could put an extremely strong and attractive offer together. This is the birthplace of rugby league, and we have vast experience of putting on big games, including major internationals.

“But our clubs are also at the heart of their communities, and by involving all three of the Giants, the Rams and the Bulldogs, we will be able to focus heavily on attracting new fans to the game, as well as promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.

“And if people are tempted to take up the game, we have the amateur club infrastructure to help them.”